MARGAO
The South Goa Poultry Products Shopkeepers and Traders’ Association has sought the intervention of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to protect the interest of the local poultry shopkeepers and traders as well as protect the interests of the consumers.
Claiming to be the original poultry farmers of Goa, they have submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister to address the issues in the poultry supply chain that has emerged in the State over the last few months.
The memorandum stated that the aim of the Association is to resolve these issues amicably, ensuring that all businesses can operate smoothly and without hindrance.
Saying they have been engaged in the poultry business for over 40 years, contributing significantly to the local economy, the Association, however, has pointed out several factors that have disrupted their operations.
Citing high production costs, the delegation said the cost of poultry production in Goa has risen significantly compared to other States, making it challenging to sustain profitability, further pointing out that the availability of skilled labour has declined, affecting their productivity.
On the restriction on direct procurement, the Association pointed out that traders cannot directly procure live chickens from companies, forcing them to buy through the association, undermining trader autonomy and fosters monopolisation, jeopardising local businesses.
“These practices have resulted in monopolistic control and targeted harassment of non-members, reminiscent of the taxi mafia scam that recently took place in Goa. This comparison highlights the severity and unethical nature of their actions, including unauthorised vehicle stops at check posts, document checks, and false allegations of transporting diseased chickens. Our longstanding record of supplying hygienic chicken makes these claims baseless,” the memorandum added.
The members have expressed their willingness and have called for permission to use QR codes for their association to ensure fairness.
Saying the unfavourable environmental conditions, including adverse weather conditions have impacted their farming practices, the South Goa Association has drawn attention of the Chief Minister to the scarcity of essential raw materials that has further compounded their difficulties.
“Consequently, the industry has gradually inclined towards importing and trading, with Goa becoming a major importer of live poultry chicken from Maharashtra and Karnataka,” the Association added.
